Bengaluru:  The three-month intensive preparatory for perpetual profession (IPPP) in Forge Key began on January 6, 2025, at Sanyasa Institute. Twenty-seven participants from six religious congregations formally entered “the Forge” on Friday, January 10th, in a profoundly moving initiation ritual.

Sanyasa had been organizing such intensive programme in view of perpetual profession, for several years. However, it was last year that the entire programme was reconceived in the Claretian Forge key.

It was felt that St. Anthony Mary Claret’s charismatic formative experience of Forge was not only applicable to Claretian missionaries, but was a gift for the world of any consecrated person.

Hence, it was decided to re-calibrate the programme along the Forge dynamics. Accordingly, following an initiation ritual, the participants move through the four phases of Forge, viz., Quid Prodest, Patris Mei, Caritas Christi, and Spiritus Domini. Across these phases, they learn the essentials of consecrated life, closely accompanied in Vocational Growth Sessions (VGS) by dedicated spiritual guides.

Karahalli, Bengaluru: The Jubilee Year 2025 was inaugurated with great spiritual fervour at St. Joseph's Church, Doddasagarahalli on Sunday, 12 January 2025, bringing together the parishioners for the spiritual renewal.

The faithful marched in procession from four different zones of the parish holding the Jubilee logo and the lighted candles, marking the pilgrimage of hope. The liturgy was enriched with various spiritual elements to signify the solemn inauguration of the Jubilee Year.

Solemn Holy Eucharist was presided by Fr. Joseph Moolakara. After the Mass, the participants shared the festive fellowship meal enriching the communal harmony.

Medchal: In pursuit of enhancing the quality of Education and the Infrastructure in its educational institutions, Province of Bangalore conducted a two days meeting for the Principals on 19-20 October at Medchal.

Bro. Bala Showrey SG in his input session highlighted the need for integrating the heart and mind in the administration of the school. He presented a principal as a leader than a manger, creating visionaries and leaders.  He emphasized the need to update oneself and to be in touch with others in such leadership.

Each institute had time to share its innovative and effective practices in the field of education, besides sharing the shades and lights of daily administration. The participants discussed extensively on ways of being on par with the government policies on education and the legal aspects institutional administration.

In all, the meeting, organized by prefecture of apostolate, highlighted the need to make Claretian Educational Institutions places of molding and building responsible citizens and able leaders.

Medchal: A three-day youth spiritual expedition, with the overall theme of "Embracing Faith, Leadership, and Community," was organized by Province of Bangalore from 08 to 10 October 2024 at St. Claret School, Medchal. The major objective of this spiritual journey, in which 450 youth from different centres of the Province of Bangalore participated, was to rise to the challenges of the modern world, reflect meaningfully on the nature of these challenges and their potential solutions, and respond to the clarion call of service before self.

The energy and enthusiasm that the youth bring to any activity is unparalleled. To channelize this energy and direct it towards meaningful action for the coming days, the Youth Festival began on a joyful note on the previous evening. The youth danced to the rhythm led by Mr. Marshon Fernandes, a songwriter, choreographer, singer, and artist.

At the inaugural Mass, Fr. Mathew Pottemparampil focused his homily on the need for the youth to develop and nurture the seeds of faith. He highlighted that we must bear witness to our faith and demonstrate our love for each other as Christians. He also pointed out that we become a blessing to others when we recognize each other as brothers and sisters.

After the inaugural Mass, to mark the formal opening ceremony, Fr. Sabu George, the Provincial Superior of Province of Bangalore, hoisted the Claret flag, and Fr. Siby Njavallikunnel, the Provincial Superior of St. Thomas Province, administered the oath encouraging the youth to commit to a life rooted in faith, guided by leadership, and dedicated to building a strong and loving community in Christ.

Rev. Fr. Mathew Vattamattam, the Superior General, too addressed the youth virtually.  He conveyed a heartfelt message that we are all the Church – the Pope, the Cardinals, the priests, the laity, and the youth. He emphasized that conflicts often arise from intolerance toward differences, but the Church teaches us to be united as one, regardless of our backgrounds. The youth play an integral role in bridging differences and working together as a community. He stressed that in the Church, there are no differences.

Dr. Babu Rao, retired Additional DGP, one of the esteemed dignitaries, outlined the role Christian missionary institutions played in his career growth. He urged the youth to lead an active Christian life, reminding them that Jesus called them to be the "salt of the earth." He highlighted three characteristics of salt: purity, symbolizing a pure life to influence the world; taste, encouraging the youth to nurture relationships and communities; and preservation, urging them to preserve the world by being righteous and influencers of change.

The theme for the second day was "Embracing Leadership." Fr. Chinanna and Fr. Martin T. led the youth in a meaningful faith and worship session in the early morning. Following a round of cultural activities, the youth participated in an orientation on leadership in the modern world, taking inspiration from Jesus’ exemplary leadership style. Mr. Cyril Joseph motivated the youth, referring to them as "disciples" in the mission to serve and empower others. He also discussed the importance of dreaming big.

In the afternoon, the youth participated in a short marathon titled "Run for Jesus," a procession reciting the Rosary from Ganapuram to Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Basuregadi. After the fellowship dinner, the youth showcased a scintillating cultural performance, captivating and enthralling everyone.

The third day of the Youth Fest began with a thought-provoking panel discussion on the theme of Embracing Community. The discussion explored vocation, community living, and service. Each participant shared their inspirational stories of embracing their vocation and the importance of growing in faith throughout life.

Fr. George Kannanthanam encouraged the youth to take daring initiatives for the betterment of the community. He cited examples of young world leaders like Greta Thunberg, who mobilized communities for change. Fr. Siby Eravimangalam introduced the acronym CAN, representing Commitment, Action, and Nurturing. He urged the youth to contribute their talents to the upliftment of others, reminding them that life is a gift meant for the welfare of all.

During the thanksgiving final Eucharist presided by Fr. Rajashekar Reddy, Fr. Martin T. in his homily encouraged the youth to have a clear vision and nurture healthy growth towards their goals.

Youth then took the Pledge of Commitment to Faith, Leadership, and Service. The pledge called on the youth to grow as leaders, serving others with love, humility, and grace, inspired by the example of Jesus.

In his closing remarks, Fr. Sabu George expressed happiness at the variety of activities that engaged the youth. He encouraged the youth to take back the leadership lessons and apply them in their parishes, inspiring others to come to Christ.

The event, organized by Fr. Jaipaul Thumma, the prefect of youth and vocation ministry in province of Bangalore, saw the participation and collaboration of many associated in Claretian Ministry. Gathering together from different centres, the youth themselves were glad that they are part of Claret Youth.

Tumkuru: On 10 October 2024, on the occasion of International World Sight Day, 'The Project Vision Eye Care Centre' Kasapura Gate organized a rally at the Hosur Grampanchayat in Gauribidanur Taluk.

Fr. Mario, Director of The Project Vision, addressed the gathering on the occasion and emphasized the global significance of the World Sight Day. He highlighted the importance of eye care awareness and reiterated that governments, organizations, and various entities organizing lectures and awareness campaigns play a crucial role in raising public consciousness. He urged everyone to contribute to "eye donation", calling it a sacred act that can help build a beautiful society. The theme for the day was ‘Children... Love Your Eyes’.

Over 150 differently-abled individuals participated in the event, spreading awareness with slogans like ‘Do not burn your eyes... Donate’, ‘Eye Donation is a Sacred Act’.

Fr. Thomas from The Project Vision, Rajesh from Hosur Health Department, Gauribidanur MRW S. Krishnappa, Lawyers Vijay and Venkatesh, VRWs Ashwathappa  and Nagaraj, and staff members from The Project Vision were present during the event.

Bengaluru: Province of Bangalore came together for an annual meeting of Community Superiors from 18 to 21 September 2024 at Carmelaram, Bengaluru. 30 leaders of the communities, along with the provincial government participated in the meeting.

This gathering facilitated the evaluation of the communities and ministries along the objectives of Chapter Recommendations and the recent developments in the congregation like the Spirituality Congress held to conclude the 175th Anniversary of the Foundation of the Congregation.

It was good opportunity for the province to reflect, evaluate and to plan for better future.

Bapatla: During the last week of August 2024 and the first week of September 2024, heavy rainfall resulted in the flooding of all tributaries in both Krishna and Guntur districts. This caused a massive inflow of floodwaters into the Krishna River, both upstream and downstream of the barrage at Vijayawada. Over 12 lakh cusecs of water were released downstream from the barrage, leading to severe flooding in parts of Vijayawada city and 34 island villages in the Bhattiprolu and Kolluru mandals within the Vijayawada-Guntur Dioceses. These areas remained submerged for nearly 3-4 days.

The Claretians of the Province of Bangalore quickly responded to the crisis, focusing on the island villages of the Bhattiprolu-Oleru region. Recognizing the vulnerability of the flood-affected population, the Claretian Fathers, supported by local youth and mission associates, initially coordinated the loading and unloading of food packets and safe drinking water, which were transported via boats to the affected areas.

Once the waters receded, the Claretians and their associates visited the villages to assess the extensive damage to property, belongings, and crops. The Claretians, along with the Cluny Sisters, provided aid to approximately 400 flood-affected families in Juvvalapalem (Bhattiprolu) and above 300 food kits in Oleru. Essential items distributed included rice, dal, edible oil, onions, sugar, biscuits, toiletries, blankets, bed sheets, towels, emergency bulbs, and other necessities.

Timely assistance and quick action by the Province of Bangalore and on-field execution by the Claretian communities of Bhattiprolu and Oleru was providential for hundreds of families affected by the floods. Special mention must be made of Cluny sisters and their hostel girls, the Mukti boys and girls, and the parishioners and youth of Bhattiprolu Parish for their tireless efforts in alleviating the suffering of the flood-affected families and restoring hope to the flood-affected people.

Bengaluru: The ASCLA West Communicators' Meeting took place from 7-9 September 2024, at the Provincial Curia Bengaluru, bringing together 12 representatives from six Major Organisms. Fr. Jose Enrique from the General Communication Team set the tone by sharing an overview of communication efforts within the congregation. Participants engaged in fruitful discussions, sharing best practices from their respective provinces and delegations. Each Major Organism highlighted successful communication strategies, demonstrating how these initiatives have strengthened outreach and community engagement.

Fr. Jose’s presentation on the congregational panorama of communication provided valuable insights into global trends and challenges. In addition to sharing case studies, the meeting included self-evaluations and group discussions. These sessions helped the participants envision both short-term and long-term communication goals for their respective organisms and for the ASCLA West. A key aspect of the gathering was fostering collaboration and mutual understanding among the communicators. One of the highlights of the meeting was an afternoon visit to the Redemptorist Media Centre in Bengaluru, where participants gained new perspectives on media engagement and evangelization. The meeting concluded with a sense of accomplishment, as participants left with enhanced communication strategies, stronger connections, and a clearer vision for the future. The gathering was a resounding success, promoting both personal relationships and professional growth in communication ministry.

Visakhapatnam: Velanganni Matha Parish Kailasapuram celebrated the annual Parish Feast of its patron, Velanganni Matha on Sunday, 8 September 2024; the faithful of the parish as well as neighbours participated in the festivities with devotion and faith.

The annual festivities included devotion and spiritual preparations through nine days of novena to Our Lady of Velanganni and Eucharistic celebrations with special themes. On the Feast Day proper, there were procession and three Eucharistic Celebrations. Morning 6.30 Mass in English was presided by Rev. Fr. George Mattathil CMF and 8.30 Mass in Telugu was celebrated by Fr. Prashanth Chinnabathini, CMF. The solemn concelebrated Holy Eucharist was presided by Rev. Jonnada John Prakash, Chancellor and Parish Priest, St. Peter’s Cathedral, Gnanapuram, Archdiocese of Visakhapatnam.

Bengaluru: Province of Bangalore continues its efforts along the synodal path of the Church and congregational journey of being rooted in Christ and audacious in mission. The province conducted three different assemblies in a month at different geographical regions of its ministerial presence. The first of these assemblies, for Karnataka-Kerala and Goa region, was held on 30-31 July 2024 at Claret Nivas Carmelaram. This being the largest region with fifteen communities, 50 members, including the provincial government, participated in it.

The first assembly began with a session by Fr. Paulson Veliyannoor, CMF to update on the recently held Spirituality Congress. It helped the participants to recollect the charismatic and spiritual roots of the congregation, culminating in moments of Adoration.  Rest of the sessions were spent in updating about the communities and ministries in the region and evaluating and planning for the path ahead.

The second assembly, for Andhra Telangana region, was held at Guntur on 06-07 August 2024. Most of the members from the region were able to participate in it. Fr. K. T. Jose, SDB helped the participants with an introductory talk on the expectations of mission in today’s context. Provincial Superior briefed the members on the recently concluded Spirituality Congress and its implications for our life ahead. Rest of the time was spent in fruitful discussions, evaluation and planning.

The third and final assembly was held on 20-21 August 2024 at Barwadih for the North region. This assembly was graced by the Bishop of Daltonganj, Most Rev. Theodore Mascarenhas, SFX.

Bishop engaged the participants in an interactive session on the shepherding role of Priesthood. Here too Provincial Superior briefed the members on the recently concluded Spirituality Congress and its implications for the life of the province ahead. Then the members engaged in discussions and evaluation of the life of missionaries in the region. During the period, members also found time to visit Ledgain campus, where the newly built Teachers’ Quarters was inaugurated and foundation stone was blessed for the new wing for the hostel.

Bhattiprolu: Under the guidance of Prefecture of Apostolate and Missions a three day training workshop was organized for inter-parish leaders from Claretian Parishes of Andhra-Telangana region at Bhattiprolu parish from 09 to 11 August 2024.

Fr. Martin Tappeta, the director of St. Claret Dhyana Brundham, with the help of other priests guided the 60 participants who enthusiastically attended the workshop to enhance their leadership qualities. The key takeaway from the workshop was ‘joy is not something to be pursued, but rather a natural outcome of nurturing relationships with God and others, ultimately enriching the Church’.

National Youth Sunday: National Youth Sunday was celebrated with devotion and fervour across Claretian Parishes on 11 August 2024. Most of the parishes organized special events to highlight the importance of the day; besides the solemn Eucharistic celebration, there were special prayer services, Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, interactive activities, etc.

The theme for the day was, “Those who hope in the Lord will run and not be weary” (Isaiah 40:31). Reflecting further on the theme, “Pilgrims of Hope – We Walk Tirelessly,” the youth were inspired to embrace the confidence that, with God by our side, we can persevere through any challenge.

Fr. Jaipaul Thumma, the Provincial Youth Coordinator, presided the celebration at Velankanni Matha Church, Kailasapuram in Visakhapatnam. On the special occasion, the parish also was blessed to have the visit of Bishop Polimera Jayarao, the apostolic administrator of Visakhapatnam diocese.  

The enthusiasm of the youth was visible throughout the celebration as they actively involved in activities of the day and eagerly received the motivational guidance and support from their pastors. The youth truly made use of the opportunity to strengthen their faith and bond of unity.

Athani, Belagavi: On 03 July 2024 Sneha Jyothi, the Centre for the Visually Impaired at Athani, inaugurated its new academic year with a very memorable event. The occasion was graced by the presence of esteemed medical professionals from various specialties and departments.

These distinguished doctors inspired the students with their motivational messages and instructions and pledged free medical care for all inmates of the Centre. Their visit was a testament to Sneha Jyothi's commitment in providing comprehensive care and support to the visually impaired.

Dr Anand Gunjgav, a renowned Paediatrician from the Department of Child Care, shared valuable insights on child development and healthcare. Dr Varsha Rani, a distinguished Gynaecologist, spoke about women's health and wellness. Dr Appaya Udhar, a skilled Dental Care expert, emphasized the importance of oral health and hygiene. Dr Sadashiv, a revered practitioner of Ayurvedic Medicine, shared his knowledge on holistic wellness and natural healing.

The well-organized inauguration ceremony demonstrated the students' creativity and potential. Dr Anand Gunjgav, Chief Guest of the day, declared the academic year 2024-2025 open, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the Centre's journey.

Sneha Jyothi Centre stands by its commitment to empower the visually impaired and provide them with quality education and healthcare through an inclusive and supportive environment. Sneha Jyothi is ever grateful to all its collaborators, like these doctors, for their time, expertise, and support.

During the last academic year, the Centre in collaboration with the college, successfully facilitated the Pre-University Course (PUC) exams for 16 visually impaired children. This remarkable achievement was made possible through the collective efforts of volunteer writers from the college and the supportive guidance of the college teachers.

Similarly, Sneha Jyothi Centre achieved a remarkable milestone in May 2024 by supporting 13 visually impaired children in writing their Degree Exams. This incredible feat was made possible through the selfless efforts of volunteer writers who assisted the visually impaired students during the examination.

Bengaluru:  Institute of Consecrated Life – Sanyasa held the formal inauguration of its new academic year on Saturday, June 22, 2024. The acts of the day began with a solemn votive Mass of the Holy Spirit, presided by Rev. Fr. Sabu George, President of the Institute.  Following the Mass, Fr. Sabu delivered the inaugural message and declared the academic year open, in the presence of the management, staff, students, and invited guests.

The following courses are scheduled for the current academic year: licentiate and diploma in theology of consecrated life, formative accompaniment: theory and practicum, safeguarding minors in ministry, discerning leadership for the consecrated, intensive preparatory for perpetual profession in forge key, contemplating with the celluloid: spiritual exercises with movies, summer course in consecrated life, online courses in essentials of consecrated life and Bible studies, and national and regional seminars in consecrated life.

Kailasapuram, Visakhapatnam: In keeping with the global concern for the environment, and to teach the same to the parish children and youth, Velankanni Matha Church Kailasapuram, in the diocese of Visakhapatnam, observed World Environment day on 16 June 2024.

The parish priest, Fr. Santhosh, CMF began the day by leading the participants in prayer for the environment. Mr. Joachim, the vice president of the parish council, through a short message explained to the children and the youth the need to care for the environment, especially for the mother earth, by planting more trees. A chain of events were arranged for the day, which included planting of saplings, poster making and chanting of the slogan "Each one Plant One".

The young parishioners showed great interest in care of the environment by active participation in day’s events.

Nallajerla: On 13 June 2024 St. Claret School, Nallajerla campus was blooming afresh with enthusiasm and vigour to mark the beginning of the new academic year. Fr. Sebastian Muthukattil, CMF solemnized the occasion by welcoming and blessing the staff and the students.

Earlier, on June 3, in order to prepare the teachers for the new academic year, an orientation seminar for teachers was organized by the school management. Fr. Tomy Urumbumkuzhiyil, CMF guided the day and inspired the teachers to commit themselves in the noble task of imparting knowledge to the students.

The previous academic year, 2023-24, was a memorable one for the school because once again the X class students had made the management and the staff proud by getting very good result to the school. P Harshitha brought laurels to the school by securing 591 marks out of 600 in the public examination and stood first in the mandal, 42 students secured distinction, 17 students stood first division and one student second division. The school recognised the hard work of the students and staff by congratulating them for their remarkable commitment and achievements.

Visakhapatnam: On 02 June 2024, the solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, 41 children received the Sacrament of First Holy Communion at Velankanni Matha Church, Kailasapuram.

The summer vacations came in handy for the parish in the archdiocese of Visakhapatnam, to spiritually prepare the candidates for the First Holy Communion. Forty one children from the parish regularly assembled at the church premises for two weeks for intensive catechetical instructions. The catechism teachers from our parish rendered their generous help for the camp and organized all the sessions in a very lively and systematic manner. Fr. Santhosh CMF, the parish priest guided the children during the last two days to understand the seven Sacraments and the precepts of the church. Fr. John CMF prepared the candidates for the confession. After the due preparation, the children received Christ for the first time on the solemnity of “The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ”.

Bengaluru:  Institute of Consecrated Life – Sanyasa conducted a month-long intensive course from April 30 to May 30, 2024 in essentials of consecrated life. There were 58 participants for the course from 27 religious orders and congregations.

The month long learning consisted of ten topics, namely, theology of vocation, theology of charism, revisioning consecrated life from history, biblical spirituality of consecrated life, evangelical counsels, theology of community life, psychospiritual integration, affective maturity, culture of discernment, and consecrated life as eucharistic therapy for the world. The participants expressed great satisfaction and were highly appreciative of the renewal experience offered by ICLS, enabling them to deepen their understanding of the fundamentals and essentials of consecrated life.

Bengaluru: As we celebrate the 175th year of Claretian Foundation, we continue to grow and thank God for the blessings of vocation. 31 May 2024, the Claretian Vocation day, was once again a memorable day for the Claretians in India. On 30 May, the eve of the vocation day, seven of the Postulants from Indian Major Organisms began their Novitiate Year at Claret Bhavan Carmelaram; other postulants will join them soon.

On 31 May, five Novices, four from Province of Bangalore and one from Kolkata Delegation committed themselves through First Profession;

21 of their companions made the commitment at other places. Rev. Fr. Sabu George, Provincial Superior of Bangalore accepted the professions in Bengaluru during the solemn Eucharistic celebration, which was graced by Claretian fraternity and a host of neighbouring priests and religious, well-wishers and families of those making their professions. During the celebration 10 Students from the Province of Bangalore renewed their religious commitments to continue their vocational journey.

Bengaluru: Province of Bangalore hosted a Renewal Seminar for the Jubilarians of ASCLA West Conference from 25 to 27 May 2024 at Provincial Curia Bengaluru.

17 priests, seven from province of Bangalore, four from province of Chennai, five from delegation of Kolkata and one from province of Northeast India participated in the renewal seminar; the participants included those celebrating the Golden Jubilee of their Religious Profession, and those celebrating Silver Jubilee of Sacerdotal ordination and Religious life.

The three day seminar consisted of sharing of life’s journey, which helped the jubilarians to recall the joy and faithfulness of their vocation, Claretian fraternal communion and the fulfillment of ministerial priesthood. Fr. George Kulangara, CMI helped the jubilarians to reflect on Priestly Leadership through Mission Spirituality, while Fr. Benny Koottanal, MSFS inspired the participants through reflection on Holistic Maturity. Dr. Merin Thomas engaged in an interactive session with the jubilarians to understand the expectations of laity from priests.

The group also enjoyed an evening with Claretian Community at Jalahalli. The jubilarians cherished the joy of Claretian fraternity and renewing of the missionary commitment through this coming together.

On 28 May, Province of Bangalore felicitated its jubilarians in Solemn Eucharistic celebration and agape which graced by the presence of a good number of Claretian fraternity.

Visakhapatnam: Pope Francis had declared that the Catholic Church’s “First World Children’s Day” would take place on 25 & 26 May 2024. Responding to Pope’s invitation, Velankanni Matha Church, Kailasapuram in Visakhapatnam diocese, celebrated it on the appointed day with vigour and enthusiasm.

Sr. Sudha SJC animated the days with different sessions and activities.

The camp comprised of various informative and learning activities based on basic prayers and catechism, stories from the life of Jesus, devotion to Mother Mary, inspirations from the lives of Saints, lessons on hygiene, moral and social values, learning interactive songs, etc. Children participated with a lot of enthusiasm and competitive spirit in the activities.  Prizes were distributed to all the winners; all the participants too received special gifts from the parish priest.

On 26th, the feast of Holy Trinity, the second day of children’s day celebration, Fr. Santhosh CMF, the parish priest, in his homily highlighted the message of unity, love and sharing in families, among parents and children by taking the Holy Trinity as the model for life. For the children as well as their families, this coming together and celebration served as the uniting bond.

Bengaluru: Taking forward the congregational initiative of training the members in Discerning Leadership, Province of Bangalore completes training of its members with the third workshop held from 13 to 20 May 2024 at Claret Nivas Carmelaram. 32 members, 28 from Province of Bangalore and four from St. Thomas Province participated in the training.

The workshop consisted of various modules of different aspects of leadership and discernment, such as contextual understanding, Jesus’ way, Claretian key, personality dynamics, synodality, conflict transformation, polarity management, etc.

The participants were assisted and guided by Frs. Paulson Veliyannoor and James Kannanthanam through input sessions, personal and group reflections as well as activities, some assessment tests and exercises. On the whole the workshop helped in understanding and building up effective leadership in the context of the Congregation and the Church.  

Province of Bangalore held three such workshops first one in July 2023, second in April 2024 and the final one in May 2024. With this, almost all the members of the province participated and benefited from the workshop.

Kurnool: On 06 May 2024 Maria Nivas Kurnool community fulfilled its long-awaited dream of having a proper dwelling. The New Residence of the community was blessed by Most Rev. Johannes Gorantla, O.C.D, Bishop of Kurnool and was opened by Rev. Fr. Manuel Tamargo, CMF, General Prefect of Economy.

The New Residence stands as a testament to the dedication and commitment of Claretian community to their mission in Kurnool Diocese and to foster belonging and unity among the members. With its graceful architecture and serene surroundings, the residence symbolizes a sanctuary where faith, compassion and service converge.

On the occasion a memorial gate too was inaugurated. To mark the Jubilee of 175 years of the Foundation of the Congregation, a New Gate was built to the campus. The gate was blessed by Most Rev. Johannes Gorantla, O.C.D and was opened by Rev. Fr. Sabu Koottarappallil, CMF, the Provincial Superior.

The day’s programme culminated with solemn Eucharistic elebration presided by Bishop Johannes Gorantla with participation of Claretian fraternity, neighbouring priests, religious and well-wishers.

Bengaluru: This year the Easter Week brought more joy to the Province of Bangalore as two of our Deacons were conferred with the Sacred Order of Priesthood.

Deacon Seru Sagar was ordained on 04 April 2024 by Most Rev. Joseph Raja Rao, Bishop of Vijayawada, at Our Lady, Star of the Sea Church Yesupuram, his native parish in Vijayawada diocese.

Deacon Sikha Kumar was ordained on 05 April 2024 at his native parish, St. Theresa of Avila Church Ravipadu, by Most Rev. Chinnabathini Bhagyaiah, Bishop of Guntur.

On 27 April 2024 Deacon Govind Kujur, CMF was ordained priest by Most Rev. Theodore Mascarenhas, SFX, Bishop of Daltonganj.

The celebration was solemnized at the native parish of Govind, St. Stephen’s Church, Nayakhar, Garhwa, Jharkhand. It was a very festive celebration, accompanied by local traditional customs like dance and singing. Along with the family and friends of Govind, a large number of faithful, priests, religious and Claretian fraternity participated in the celebration.

All the celebrations were solemnized with large participation of the faithful and Claretian Fraternity. Together with the Claretians, the families of the new priests rejoiced to see their sons at the service of the Altar. It was festive atmosphere as the Easter joy was doubled with the Grace of Ordinations.

Bengaluru: In a significant development for the educational landscape of Bengaluru, St. Claret College, Jalahalli has been conferred with Autonomous Status by University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Government of Karnataka, ushering in a new era of academic freedom and innovation. The announcement, which came on 03 April 2024, has been met with widespread acclaim from students, parents, alumni and faculty.

A Standing Committee led by Prof. Dr. Jayakara Shetty M., Vice-Chancellor, Bangalore University visited St. Claret College on February 08, 2024 and assessed the preparations of the college for grant of autonomous status. The committee included Shri Sheik Latheef, K.A.S., Registrar, Bangalore University, academicians and administrators.

The attainment of autonomous status is a testament to the unwavering commitment of St. Claret College towards excellence in higher education. With this status, the institution gains greater administrative and academic autonomy, allowing it to design its own curriculum, conduct examinations, and award degrees. This newfound independence empowers St. Claret College to tailor its educational offerings to meet the evolving needs of students and industries, fostering a culture of creativity, research, and entrepreneurship.

Speaking on the occasion, Principal, Dr. Fr. Thomas Thennadiyil, expressed excitement, stating, "The grant of autonomous status is a validation of our relentless pursuit of academic excellence and innovation. It opens up new avenues for us to enrich the learning experience of our students and contribute meaningfully to society."

Founded in 2005 by the Claretian Missionaries, St. Claret College has a current enrolment of 2600 students across a diverse range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and Ph.D. programs. Accredited with an esteemed A+ grade by NAAC and approved by AICTE, the college maintains high standards of education and excellence.